FUN FACTS:

  • Proud Mother and Wife: I’m a loving mom and wife, and my family is my greatest joy. We share lots of laughter, adventures, and plenty of love, and sometimes we are just exhausted and overwhelmed (and that is okay!).

  • Animal Lover: I’m the proud parent of two dogs and one cat, who keep me on my toes and remind me that life is always better with a furry friend.

  • World Traveler: Originally an immigrant, I’ve learned to embrace the beauty in all cultures: one passport stamp at a time.

  • Neurodivergent Vibes: Turns out, I’m neurodivergent with ADHD, and suddenly everything in my life makes so much more sense. It’s like my brain is a never-ending puzzle, and I’m here for it!

  • Brain Explorer: I’ve got a love affair with the brain. Seriously, I find it endlessly fascinating and love learning all the cool things it can do!

Hi, I’m Val!

MSW, LSW, EMDR Trained, Level 1 Theraplay® Trained

Child Therapist | Pronouns: she/her/hers

Associate Owner

Bilingual: English/Portuguese

Ages: 2 - 12 + EMDR | Caresource, Buckeye, UnitedHealth Care, & Self-pay

Dr. Stuart Brown spent his life researching the value of play across the lifespan. He found that there are 8 different ways we all engage in play - yes, even adults! According to his Play Personalities, I am:

• The Explorer: I love to see new places and people and be immersed in cultures. I value being able to learn about different ways of being and honoring the uniqueness of others.

• The Collector: I have a growing collection of water bottles, tattoos, and mementos from my travels.

About Val

Oi eu sou a Val. I am a licensed social worker with a Master’s degree in Social Work from Northern Kentucky University, specializing in child-centered therapy and trauma-informed care. I am EMDR trained, and Level 1 Theraplay trained. Under the supervision of Candy Ultizsch, LISW-S, RPT-S, I’m pursuing my Registered Play Therapist credential to deepen my work with young clients. I believe in the power of neuro-informed care and trauma-informed care, and my primary line of work is child-centered play Therapy. I am passionate about supporting children ages 3–12 as they process emotions, build resilience, and develop healthy coping skills through play and creative expression.

I collaborate closely with caregivers to strengthen attachment, foster emotional regulation, and create safe, supportive home environments. For adult clients, my focus is exclusively on EMDR therapy, helping individuals process past trauma, reduce distress, and reclaim a sense of empowerment.

As a LGBTQ+ ally and neuro-affirming clinician, I deeply respect diversity and cultural responsiveness. I am grounded in the belief that every person, no matter their age, has the capacity for growth and healing.

Outside of work, I enjoy traveling with my family and have a profound love for animals. These things add a joyful, adventurous spirit to my life and enrich my understanding of the unique experiences that shape us all.

Licensure and Certification

Licensed Social Worker (LSW) | S.2308948

EMDR Trained

Level 1 Theraplay Trained